Excitement is building around the seventh Atlas Workshops, which will take place from December 1-5 as part of the Marrakech Competition. Among the standout projects are Lina Soualem’s household drama set in Spain, “Alicante,” Walid Messnaoui’s gripping gangster Western, “The Final Beast of Atlas,” and Linda Lô’s poignant search-for-identity narrative, “Fortunate Woman.” These titles have generated significant buzz and anticipation, showcasing the diverse storytelling emerging from the region.

This year’s Workshops will feature acclaimed director Jeff Nichols, known for his work on “Mud,” as the esteemed tutor guiding emerging filmmakers. His presence promises to enrich the experience for participants, offering invaluable insights into the filmmaking process and helping to cultivate the next wave of cinematic talent.

Attendees can look forward to exclusive previews of three highly anticipated films from prominent Arab filmmakers: Cherien Dabis, known for “Amreeka,” Marwan Hamed, the visionary behind “The Yacoubian Building,” and Tarzan and Arab Nasser, who directed the Oscar-nominated “Gaza Mon Amour.” These projects represent a vibrant cross-section of cinematic creativity and cultural storytelling, shining a light on the rich tapestry of Arab cinema.

In addition to these notable filmmakers, the Workshops will showcase a host of talented young filmmakers from Morocco, Africa, and the broader Arab world. Many of these artists have already received prestigious accolades, including Academy Awards and recognition at major film festivals. This year’s Atlas Workshops boast one of the most impressive and exciting lineups in recent memory, underscoring the growing influence of regional cinema on the global stage.

According to Atlas Workshops director Hédi Zardi, the landscape of Arab and African cinema is evolving. Filmmakers are now producing projects that not only resonate at major international festivals but are also designed for the global market. Moving beyond traditional social drama, there is a burgeoning embrace of various genres, allowing for innovative storytelling that captures the complexities of hope and hardship in contemporary society. His selection criteria focuses on bold, original narratives that also align with market trends, paving the way for broader audience engagement.

Cherien Dabis, who first gained recognition at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival with “Amreeka,” returns with a compelling new project entitled “All That’s Left of You.” This multi-generational tale, shot in Arabic, delves into the Palestinian experience, reflecting the struggles and resilience of families across time. Dabis’s work continues to resonate, bridging cultural divides and highlighting shared human experiences.

The workshop will also feature “Once Upon a Time in Gaza,” a revenge drama from brothers Tarzan and Arab Nasser. This ambitious project stands out as the Workshop’s largest co-production, involving collaboration among filmmakers from Palestine, France, Germany, Portugal, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia. With Bac Movies handling French distribution and international rights, the film is positioned to make a significant impact on the global cinema landscape.

Marwan Hamed, a prominent Egyptian director, brings the highly anticipated “El Sett,” a bold narrative that showcases modern Egyptian filmmaking’s ambitions on the world stage. Hamed is celebrated for elevating Egyptian cinema’s profile, and this latest project promises to continue that trajectory with its gripping storytelling and high production values.

Newcomer Lina Soualem joins the Workshops with her project “Alicante,” following her success with “Bye Bye Tiberias,” which premiered at Venice and Toronto in 2023. This film explores familial bonds and the challenges faced by Assia, who, after a breakup, tries to reconnect with her family while grappling with the pressures of saving their newly opened restaurant in Spain.

The Workshops also welcome notable first-time feature filmmakers, including Murad Abu Aiseh, who made history as the first Arab to win a Student Oscar, and Zamo Mkhwanazi, the first Black South African director with a short film featured at Sundance. Their participation reflects the diverse voices emerging from the region, contributing to a richer cinematic dialogue.

Morad Mostafa’s “Aisha Can’t Fly Away” recently won the Venice Production Bridge’s Final Cut award, showcasing the compelling narrative of a woman navigating ethnic tensions while caring for her elderly parents in Cairo. Additionally, Charlotte Rabate’s television series “The Colony” has been picked up by HBO Max, further exemplifying the growing international interest in Arabic-language content.

Anticipated second features include “Behind The Palm Trees” from Meryem Benm’Barek, who gained Oscar recognition with her debut film “Sofia,” which won Best Screenplay at Cannes’ Un Certain Regard in 2018. Her new project promises to deliver a nuanced exploration of identity and cultural heritage.

Babatunde Apalowo’s “In the Shadows of Good Fortune” marks another significant follow-up project, continuing his exploration of societal themes following his acclaimed film “All the Colors of the World Are Between Black and White,” which won the Teddy Award at Berlin.

Established directors, including Tala Hadid, whose earlier films have screened at Toronto and Berlin, will also participate, showcasing a rich tapestry of storytelling and cinematic innovation from the region.

A closer look at the diverse and exciting projects in development at the Atlas Workshops reveals a wealth of talent and creativity:

Innovative Film Projects in Development

“Alicante,” (Lina Soualem, Algeria, France)

In “Alicante,” after a difficult breakup, Assia retreats to her family, who have recently opened a restaurant in Spain. As she attempts to find solace, she confronts the challenges of saving the family business while navigating her own identity crisis. This film represents a significant step for Soualem, who is backed by the talented team of Omar El Kadi and Nadia Turencev at the renowned French production company, Simple Riders Films.

“Flowers of the Dead,” (“Flôr di Finado,” Nuno Miranda, Cape Verde, Portugal)   

“Flowers of the Dead” is currently in early development and is the latest project from Nuno Miranda, whose previous work, “Kmêdeus” (“EatGod”), was showcased at the Rotterdam Festival. This romantic road movie unfolds against the mystical landscapes of Cape Verde, following two characters as they navigate their grief and embark on journeys of personal growth. Produced by Pedro Soulé for Cape Verde’s KS Cinema and Pedro José-Marcellino for Portugal’s Pedrada, the film promises to be a visually stunning exploration of love and loss.

“Ici Repose,” (Moly Kane, Senegal, France)

The debut feature from Senegalese writer-director Moly Kane, known for his acclaimed short “Moly,” which screened at Cannes Classics, explores heavy themes inspired by true events. This poignant narrative follows a conformist mother who confronts societal norms to honor her son, who was lynched for being gay. Produced by Babubu Films, associated with his previous work “Sër Bi,” and Films Grand Huit, known for the Berlin Silver Bear winner “Disco Boy,” this film is poised to make a powerful statement on societal challenges.

“The Last Beast of the Atlas,” (Walid Messnaoui, Morocco)

In his anticipated feature debut, Moroccan filmmaker Walid Messnaoui transports audiences to the 1990s Middle Atlas in “The Last Beast of the Atlas.” This twilight Western-drama centers around Boulohouch, a mythical outlaw symbolizing freedom and terror. As the legend begins to unravel, viewers will be taken on a gripping journey through a tale of redemption and discovery. Produced by Taoufik Rais and El Mahdi Amsrouy at Caestus Films, which is gaining recognition in the Moroccan film scene, this project promises to captivate audiences.

“Fortunate Woman,” (“Chanteuse,” Linda Lô, France)

In her debut feature film, Linda Lô shares her personal story through a fictional narrative. During a trip to Bordeaux, Lili, alongside her brothers aged 9 and 20, is left to navigate life on her own when their vibrant mother returns to Gabon to run her restaurant-discotheque. The film unfolds in three acts, depicting Lili’s transformation into Linda as she strives to honor her mother and reconnect with her African roots. Produced by Didar Domehri’s Maneki Films, known for its commitment to significant narratives in French indie cinema, this project will resonate with audiences seeking heartfelt stories of identity.

“The Orange Grove,” (Murad Abu Eisheh, Canada) 

“The Orange Grove,” adapted from Larry Tremblay’s 2013 novel, follows the childhood of an actor-understudy navigating life with his twin brother amid the chaos of war. The story is set largely in an orange grove, symbolizing hope and resilience. The project is backed by the esteemed producer Roger Frappier, known for his work on Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog.” Eisheh’s previous short film, “Tala’imaginative vision,” won a Student Oscar and was recognized as the best short at the Red Sea Festival.

“Princess Téné,” (Fabien Dao, Burkina Faso)

“Princess Téné” unfolds in contemporary Ouagadougou, where Téné, the queen of nightlife, inherits her family stable and uses the horses for drug transportation. However, she soon realizes the implications of her actions when she discovers they are sold to the same terrorists who murdered her brother. As Téné reconnects with her community of horsemen and her heritage, the film explores themes of identity and redemption. Produced by Moustapha Sawadogo at Future Films, known for its creative storytelling rooted in local culture.

“Pure Insanity,” (Inés Arsi, Tunisia, France)

Inés Arsi’s latest project, “Pure Insanity,” is a documentary feature emerging from Tunisia’s Intuition Bleu, a production company known for its commitment to powerful narratives. Arsi, who previously worked on “Who Do I Belong To” by Oscar-nominated Meryam Joobeur, explores her personal journey in this film. The narrative delves into the life of her uncle, who immigrated to France in the 1960s, while bravely confronting the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Tunisia. This documentary promises to be a heartfelt exploration of family, identity, and resilience.

“Samir, the Unintended Spy,” (Charlotte Rabate, France)

“Samir, the Unintended Spy” follows the story of 12-year-old Samir, who flees to Lebanon after the 1966 coup d’état in Syria. Convinced that his father is a spy, he embarks on an adventurous investigation alongside his girlfriend Christine, leading to surprising revelations about his father’s secret life. Produced by Coralie Dias’ Inter Spinas Films, Rabaté has previously produced and co-written the celebrated feature “Stray Dolls,” which premiered at Tribeca and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. This film promises to blend elements of drama and mystery, appealing to a wide audience.

“The Shelter,” (Talal Selhami, Morocco, France) 

“The Shelter” is a poignant narrative crafted by Talal Selhami, set within the backdrop of Paris. The story revolves around Leila, a Syrian refugee and survivor of war, who is tasked with caring for Georges, a former diplomat nearing the end of his life. This intimate relationship compels Leila to confront her past traumas, as the proximity to death awakens the ghosts of her memories. This film, produced by Lamia Chraibi’s La Prod